Decisions, decisions

Suddenly, having spent the last couple of years on Pinterest, the time has come to start making actual decisions about just exactly how we would like the barn to look, and just what we can afford!

From windows and doors to floor and wall finishes, sanitary ware and appliances, lighting, heating and then there’s the fun stuff like furniture and décor. It all seems very real, and really exciting, but it’s interesting to reflect on the choices we are making and to note that what we choose is largely quite simple but of quality. There will be no steam ovens, integrated coffee machines or multi-nozzle light show showers, but a good quality toaster and a deep bath are definitely required. The bath has taken some negotiation since the bathroom is fairly small and discussions over shower -v- bath have been lengthy, however, given the size of garden and the maintenance required I predict many a long, hot soak will be much appreciated. We have now achieved a layout that includes both a bath and a shower that everyone is happy with. This beautiful bath by Lisna Waters is currently top of my wish list!

The bathroom window itself looks north towards the village where my parents now live, so I will be able to give them a wave as I brush my teeth in the mornings! It’s a lovely view and I know I will so enjoy watching it change not only with the seasons, but as the orchard grows and our little saplings become mature fruit trees. The hedge we planted two years ago is already starting to fill out a bit, and this autumn I hope to plant another hedge inside the fence. This will ensure we have a good, thick boundary between us and the road, and will be a mixture of native hedging with the addition of a good number of Rosa Rugosa so we can enjoy both the flowers and then the hips in the autumn.

Meanwhile the blackberries are ripening and I plan to get picking this afternoon, Crème de Mûr and Blackberry vinegar are on my recipe list in addition to the obvious blackberry and apple combinations. In fact I bet my father would love blackberry and apple crumble ice-cream so let’s see if that works!